Former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, OON, has raised alarm over the growing circulation of fake, substandard, and counterfeit drugs in Nigeria, warning that the trend poses a grave threat to public health and safety.
In a post shared via his X handle on Saturday, Ahmad lamented the devastating consequences of the illicit trade in fake pharmaceuticals, which he said has led to preventable deaths and severe mental health complications among young Nigerians.
“A large number of fake, substandard and counterfeit drugs continue to flood our markets, resulting in tragic consequences, including cases where young Nigerians lose their lives or suffer severe mental health complications,” he wrote.
The former presidential aide urged Nigerians and relevant authorities to take decisive action to curb the menace, emphasizing that the issue demands national attention and collaboration across all sectors.
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“It is time for everyone to #SayNoToFakeDrugs!” Ahmad declared, adding that the collective will of citizens and stronger regulatory oversight were essential to protect lives.
Ahmad’s statement comes amid growing concerns about the circulation of unregulated pharmaceutical products in Nigerian markets, particularly in rural and informal trading areas where enforcement of drug safety standards remains weak.
Public health experts have repeatedly warned that counterfeit medications not only endanger lives but also undermine confidence in the healthcare system, urging stricter surveillance, tougher penalties for offenders, and improved public awareness campaigns.